Heartfelt Holiday Message for Friends with Family in War Zones or Peacekeeping

How to Support Friends and Family in War Zones: What to Say and How to Help

Having loved ones in war zones can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience for everyone involved. While it’s difficult to fully comprehend what they’re going through, your support can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide on how to support your friends and family in war zones, what to say, and practical ways to help.

Understanding the Challenges

Being in a war zone comes with intense stress, danger, and uncertainty. Loved ones back home often experience a range of emotions, from pride and worry to fear and longing. It’s important to approach these situations with empathy and understanding.

What to Say

  1. Express Gratitude and Admiration:

    • “I’m incredibly proud of you and the sacrifices you’re making. Your bravery and dedication are truly admirable.”

    • “Thank you for your service and for the risks you’re taking. You are a hero in my eyes.”

  2. Offer Reassurance and Support:

    • “I’m here for you, no matter what. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”

    • “You’re in my thoughts and prayers every day. Stay safe and know we’re all rooting for you.”

  3. Acknowledge Their Experience:

    • “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here to listen and support you in any way I can.”

    • “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. You’re doing something incredibly difficult, and it’s normal to have ups and downs.”

  4. Share Positive Updates:

    • “We’re all doing well here and thinking of you. We look forward to your safe return.”

    • “Your strength inspires us all. We’re keeping busy and can’t wait to have you back with us.”

How to Support

  1. Maintain Communication: Regularly reach out through letters, emails, or calls. Hearing from loved ones can be a tremendous morale booster.

  2. Send Care Packages: Put together care packages with essential items, favourite snacks, and personal touches like photos or handwritten notes. During our "Festive Positivity" challenge we ask followers to write letters to our peacekeepers and veterans as we do every year. The mail strike this year, 2024, made it difficult so we reached out to government offices and were advised of a community board you can post on to send your messages. In the United States there are several organizations. Check in on Let it go with Reiki's instagram channel for how to support your troops. In Canada, contact:   

    https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/contact-us/write-troops.html

  3. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the situation in the region where your loved one is stationed. This shows your commitment and understanding.

  4. Offer Practical Help to Their Families: Help with daily chores, childcare, or errands to alleviate some of the stress their families might be facing.

  5. Connect Them with Support Networks: Share information about support groups, counseling services, and resources specifically designed for military families and personnel. There are several support groups and resources available for military families in Canada including Support Our Troops, Military Family Resource Centers and a Family Information Line that provides confidential, bilingual counselling for use by military families: 1-899-866-4546. The Red Cross in the US provides support as does the Defense-funded program Military OneSource.

     

     

How Reiki Can Support You

Reiki, a form of energy healing, can be a powerful tool for both those in war zones and their loved ones at home. Here’s how Reiki can help:

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Reiki promotes deep relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety, providing a sense of peace and calm.

  2. Emotional Balance: By balancing the body’s energy centers (chakras), Reiki helps manage emotions, fostering resilience and stability.

  3. Spiritual Connection: Reiki enhances your connection to the universal life force, offering spiritual support and guidance during challenging times.

  4. Empowerment and Resilience: Reiki strengthens your inner resources, helping you cope with the challenges and maintain a positive outlook.

Reiki can be sent long distance to provide support to loved ones overseas, including those in war zones. This practice, known as distance Reiki, works by channeling universal life energy to the recipient, regardless of their physical location. Through intention and focus, Reiki practitioners can send healing energy to help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and provide emotional and spiritual support to family members far away. It’s a comforting way to stay connected and offer care across great distances.

Supporting friends and family in war zones requires empathy, understanding, and practical actions. By maintaining communication, offering reassurance, and using tools like Reiki, you can provide meaningful support and comfort to your loved ones during these difficult times.

At 7pm December 24, several Reiki Masters around the world including Calah with Let it go with REIKI in Burlington, Ontario Canada will be joining together in sending Reiki with the intention of peace and healing. Together, we can find strength and comfort in the most challenging times.

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